The Effect of Ionizing Radiation on the Optical and Electrical Properties of the Alkali Halides

Various mechanisms for the formation of point defects in ionic crystals are considered. Their probable importance as a function of the energy of the ionizing radiation and the temperature at which the irradiation takes place is discussed. Complex centers formed from aggregates of simple point defects are reviewed and their occurrence considered in terms of the expected spatial distribution of the point defects. The effect of high energy x rays and protons on the ionic conductivity is discussed in terms of a new interpretation of the conductivity curve as a function of temperature, and it is suggested that radiation-enhanced diffusion may be important in explaining the experimental data. (auth